Exploring Boqueria Market during a Barcelona Cooking Class

December 14, 2020 | By Liz SanFilippo Hall

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An interesting part of Barcelona’s culinary history can be found in the city’s Boqueria market, which can be explored in as part of our Spain cooking classes and cooking vacations. The origins of the market date back to 1217 when vendors sold meats from their stalls. It wasn’t until 1840 that some permanent stalls were built, and in 1914, the market added a metal roof so the vendors could operate rain or shine every day (except Sunday, when the market is closed).

Today, Boqueria is located on a pedestrian-only street, Las Ramblas, and offers 200 shops and stalls full of amazing smells and beautiful sights. In the center of the market, you’ll find an island of fish, called ills de peix, including such fresh ingredients as Barcelona’s favorite cuttlefish, as well as monkfish and prawns. The stalls on the outside of the market are packed with colorful fruits and vegetables. Other stalls offer every possible delicious ingredient your heart can dream of, from meats and cheeses to breads, prepared meals, and candies.

Read about some of our favorite market visits.

During the cooking class “Boqueria Market Visit and Cooking Lesson,” as well as our Barcelona Foodie Adventure, you’ll be regaled with personal stories and secrets of the market’s history. If you’re on the walking tour, you’ll even get to stop at the famous Bar Pinotxo for a tasty tapa (snack). You’ll be experiencing the market like the locals do as you pick out ingredients, and then it’s off to the kitchen to learn how to create beautiful and delicious Catalan dishes!